AAR Expert Mindy Dahlquist says installing a roof over a current roof system is ideal when the roof itself is in good shape but has just reached the end of its visually appealing phase.

AAR Expert April question: When is it acceptable to install a new roof over an existing roof?

AAR Expert Mindy Dahlquist answer: Certain situations must be present for a roofing installation to occur with a new roof over an existing roof without a tear-off. This is not usually an ideal situation, although it can be a more affordable option.  

Leaving the current roof in place and installing over it can be a poor option when you have water intrusion, mold, ventilation concerns or other damages.  

Installing a roof over a current roof system is ideal when the roof itself is in good shape but has just reached the end of its visually appealing phase. Take asphalt, as an example: if the deck is still structurally sound (including the back side of the deck), ventilation is good, no major damages have occurred and granule loss isn't apparent, then the roof can be roofed over top. Shingles must be laying flat. Overlay install should not occur for an project with more than one previous layer of material (code requirement). Overlaying a roof can reduce 10-15% of cost to save on labor, disposal fees and rip-off time.  

In the roof overlay circumstances, your fastener length will become important to ensure that your fasteners are being attached into sheathing to prevent a lower pull-out strength value. 

By Emma Peterson. 

From expert Q&As to snow retention essentials, here are the top five AskARoofer articles for January 2026. 

Whether you are shopping for a new roof, looking to get repairs on an existing roof or just wanting to increase your knowledge, AskARoofer is the place to be. We have countless articles and podcasts about your roof; in fact we posted over three dozen in January 2026 alone! We know this is a lot of content, so if you’re just looking for the highlights, we're diving into the top five articles of January 2026 here. 

This month, multiple question and answer articles made our top five! These questions are the heart of what we do at AskARoofer — create a space for homeowners to directly interact and get advice from industry professionals. One of the articles on our list answered John’s question, a Maryland homeowner, about his ridge vent caps. The other article focuses on a question about the long-term performance of mechanically attached systems sent in by Tim from Ohio. 

As for our top article from January 2026, it comes from Heidi J. Ellsworth, the president/CEO of The Coffee Shops™ (which includes AskARoofer sister site RoofersCoffeeShop®). In her article on AskARoofer, she dives into the world of snow retention and how products like those from TRA Snow and Sun can save both money and lives.  

The top articles on AskARoofer from January 2026 

5 - Q&A – Mechanically attached versus self adhered 

4 - How often should commercial roofs be inspected? A straight-talking guide for small business owners by Wendy Marvin 

3 - Q&A – Ridge vents and airflow

2 - Craftsmanship meets preservation at the Settlemier House by HER Roofing 

1 - When quality, design and warranty align: Raising the standard for snow retention by Heidi J. Ellsworth

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

TRA Snow and Sun explains why engineering and attachment matter more than weight alone.

With winter in full swing, contractors begin hearing from building owners who suddenly realize their roofs need snow retention before major storms arrive. Although these systems are ideally installed earlier in the season, late-fall demand continues to surge. TRA Snow and Sun has become a trusted expert source during this busy period, providing contractors with clear guidance on what truly drives snow retention performance.

Across the industry, misconceptions about strength persist. Many still believe heavier automatically means stronger, yet snow guards can range from thin 26-gauge components to oversized cast pieces without guaranteeing better results. Real strength comes from smart geometry, quality materials and, most importantly, the attachment method. Leading engineers design, test and warranty systems for specific project layouts so brackets, rails and fasteners perform as an integrated whole.

Precision, not bulk, is the true differentiator. Rigorous test protocols reflect real snow loads and actual movement, giving contractors a clear picture of how a system will behave when winter arrives. This engineering-first approach has helped elevate industry expectations and improve outcomes on a wide range of roof types.

Experts also emphasize practical insights that save time and money on the roof:

• Mechanically hemmed standing seam panels can offer up to 71% stronger attachment, potentially reducing system costs by as much as 30 percent.
• Screws outperform nails for bracket installation and can double system strength.
• Many roofs do not require a two-rail fence when a one-rail or hybrid setup can deliver the same performance with fewer materials.
• On more complex structures, combining brackets with snow fences can create an effective dual-system approach.
• Thoughtful design is what sets high-performing snow retention products apart. Systems developed through engineering provide predictable protection.
• Using 16-gauge steel chosen for reliability, today’s top solutions incorporate the right amount of material instead of unnecessary bulk. Project-specific warranties reinforce confidence, and true savings come from efficient design rather than shortcuts.

Daily testing continues to refine performance and strengthen industry knowledge. Whether a project calls for 24-gauge components or heavier 3/8-inch steel, well-engineered systems are designed for longevity and dependable performance. The goal remains consistent: to give contractors solutions that install efficiently, look clean and perform for decades.

For contractors seeking dependable snow retention options, TRA Snow and Sun offers engineered systems for nearly every roof type along with free design support, project-specific layouts and warrantied performance. 

By Dani Sheehan. 

There's no one-size-fits-all roof, and TRA Snow and Sun innovates to meet every challenge. 

TRA Snow and Sun’s newly designed Rafter Mount delivers both performance and safety while also making installation easier and more cost-effective for contractors.  

Innovation with purpose 

The Rafter Mount is the next iteration of TRA Snow and Sun’s traditional deck mount system. In the past, deck mounts required larger cuts of metal, which created more waste during production. By rethinking the design, TRA Snow and Sun engineered a mount that uses less material while maintaining the same structural strength you depend on. 

This new design is a smarter way to build. The streamlined shape allows the mounts to nest more efficiently during manufacturing, reducing scrap and improving efficiency in the production process. That translates directly into savings for the end user: less waste means lower production costs and those savings get passed along to you and your customers. 

Protection that performs 

The Rafter Mount secures heavy-duty snow fences directly into structural roof trusses and rafters, creating a strong, lasting connection even in heavy snow zones. It’s an excellent choice for steep-slope roofs where avalanche protection is critical, or for projects where aesthetics matter – the powder coating options let the system blend seamlessly with any roofing style. 

Paired with TRA Snow and Sun’s snow fence systems, the newly designed mount helps prevent snow and ice from sliding off in large, dangerous sheets that can damage landscaping, block walkways or cause injury. And like all TRA Snow and Sun products, it’s rigorously tested for strength and reliability. With flashing and sealing best practices built into their installation guidance, TRA Snow and Sun helps you reduce liability while delivering the best protection. 

Explore TRA Snow and Sun’s complete snow retention lineup and find the products you need to get the job done right.

AAR Expert Mindy Dahlquist says no matter where you live weather will impact your roof.

Editor's note: The following is the transcript of a live interview with AAR Expert Mindy Dahlquist. You can read the interview below, listen to the podcast or watch the recording.

Mindy Dahlquist: My name is Mindy Dalquist and I am the business development manager at TRA Snow and Sun. So weather is going to impact our roofs no matter where you live in the United States or Canada or wherever else you live. Weather will impact your roof. Mother Nature is quite the beast and everyone out there is going to have a different problem and a different solution for their area so if its water or rain...same thing, that impacts your roof, your solution may be something such as roofing material or if you're having ice damming problems it could be the temperature variances on your roof's surface.

If you're having snow concerns, things like snow retention, heat cables are options out there to help mitigate any kinds of damages in danger with snow. If you're dealing with hail and wind uplift then roofing material really is going to play a very crucial part in how to handle that solution. So every situation is going to be different. RoofersCoffeeShop has a lot of information on beneficial solutions for all different types of roofing environments and all different types of homes as well so I think utilizing those resources and utilizing your local associations will also be helpful to determine what other roofers in your area are utilizing or what other manufacturers might be out there with some type of solution for your problem.

By Emma Peterson.

This is a great opportunity for roofing professionals to learn about the products they use day-in and day-out.

Throughout the year, Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) hosts Roadshows around the country. These are exciting opportunities for roofing owners and professionals to expand their knowledge and connect with colleagues. Recently, on March 6, 2025, TRA Snow & Sun hosted one of these sessions at their plant in American Fork, Utah that was free for all attendees.

Attendees received a thought-provoking snow retention crash course and got to tour the TRA manufacturing plant. The tour showcased a variety of TRA’s operations and offerings. In the front office there was an interesting display featuring various TRA accessories on different roofing materials (see the cover image).  

Attendees also got to see robotic manufacturing arms in action, tackling tasks such as folding brackets. They also got to learn about TRA’s powder coating services. These services, which have been offered at the American Fork plant since 1996, include multiple cleanings before spraying and baking a powder coat on a variety of products, from single 10-foot items to high-volume production components. Their advanced continuous chain application process ensures that the coated metals are durable and long-lasting.  

There were also two critical education sessions that included Q&As to help attendees learn about protecting their businesses financially and navigating insurance complications. The first, titled “Protecting Your Financial House” was taught by Erin Hoffman from Certified Financial Services and the second, called “Critical Insurance Issues in Roofing & Utah Collections” was presented by Ashlee Poplin of Adams and Reese.

The entire session closed with a free lunch, which offered a great opportunity to talk about the morning’s activities and network with others in the industry, and a fun raffle drawing.  

This April, make sure to check them out at the Phoenix, Arizona roadshow and keep an eye out for more hosted by TRA this year!

By Emma Peterson. 

While many homeowners shovel their paths and driveways in the snowy months to be clear and safe, it is equally important that the same care be given to their roofs. 

Winter weather brings homeowners a whole new series of challenges, with snow being one of the most common. In Season 5, Episode 66 of Roofing Road Trips®, Heidi J. Ellsworth sat down with Mindy Dahlquist from TRA Snow and Sun and Nick Mentzer from The Roofing Company to learn all the details of keeping your friends and family safe during the cold, winter months.  

Nick has worked as a contractor in Colorado for over ten years now and before that was working in Nebraska. He’s seen his fair share of snow over the course of his career and knows the dangers it can pose to those around it. He explains that “as the winter progresses and the snow accumulates, altering weather patterns produce a layering effect on the roof. Then, when you have lack of friction forming on the roof, freeze thaw cycles that start to introduce different elements into the layering and eventually something's going to slide.” This slide is not just one or two inches of powder, this is an avalanche that poses real danger to those passing by. 

Living up in the mountains of Oregon, Heidi has seen this happen countless times, explaining, “[You’ll see] these huge piles, mounds of snow around buildings that sometimes won't melt until midsummer. And what does that do? Obviously, loss of life, people walking underneath it, animals, pets, but even if you really look also at what it does to your plants and your landscaping, it's not pretty." 

Mindy works in Utah with TRA Snow and Sun combatting this issue through snow retention systems. While this may initially seem counterintuitive, she explains that the solution is not fighting the elements and trying to keep the snow off the roof, but rather preventing the snow to fall all at once. She says, “What a lot of people don't realize too is when that snow accumulates on the roof, it's going to be there whether you want it to be or not.” Snow retention systems control the snow accumulation and the rate at which it melts. By capturing and freezing the snow on the roof, these systems allow snow to melt off gradually rather than falling in a dangerous avalanche.  

Read the transcript or Listen to the podcast to learn more about the several types of snow retention systems TRA Snow and Sun produce. 

By TRA Snow & Sun.  

Installing snow guards can not only help prevent damage to your property but ensure the safety of those around you.  

Living in areas with extreme snowfall and ice can be very dangerous for your roof and those below — you never know if snow will slide off your roof and damage nearby cars or passersby. That’s why snow guards come highly recommended when living in these kinds of conditions. Snow guards are installed into sheathing or the roofing material (retrofit) to prevent mass amounts of snow from falling off, allowing it to stay in place safely and melt. Not only will it help protect those at ground level, but it can also help maintain the roofs' life as well.  

Several types of snow guards are available, each with features and benefits. Some of the most common types, along with their pros and cons: 

Metal snow guards 

Metal snow guards are typically made of zinc plated stainless steel or aluminum and are known for their durability and long lifespan. They are also relatively easy to install, as they can be attached to the roof using screws or roofing nails. Metal snow guards can be powder coated to match roof colors and can typically be installed on any roofing material depending on the snow guard manufacturer. Snow guards are not designed to stop moving snow, often many courses of guards are needed to keep the snow in place.  

Plastic snow guards 

Plastic snow guards are affordable and often easy to install. They are relatively lightweight. However, plastic snow guards are not nearly as durable as metal ones and often need to be replaced frequently due to damage from UV rays. There are also several reasons that the adhesive could lack a proper seal and often do not stay adhered long term. They can become a decoration in the landscape instead of maintaining their position on the roof. This is why some companies opt out of offering snow guards made of plastic due to a lack of durability. 

Rubber snow guards 

Rubber snow guards are a flexible option well-suited to roofs with irregular surfaces or imperfections. These snow guards can be attached using adhesive or screws. However, they may not be as effective at preventing the build-up of snow and ice as other types of snow guards.  

Snow fences 

Snow fences are a type of snow guard designed to be installed along the edge of a roof rather than through the entire field. More than 1 row is utilized when needed depending on the strength of the device. They are made of stainless steel or aluminum and create a barrier that prevents snow and ice from sliding from the roof. Snow fences are relatively easy to install and are effective at preventing the build-up of snow and ice, but they are more noticeable from the ground. 

When selecting snow guards, it is important to consider the slope of your roof, the type of roofing material, ground snow load, fastener type, sheathing type/thickness & the strength of your device. States such as Utah or Colorado can experience heavy snowfall, so it is important to choose a type of snow guard that can handle the weight of the snow and ice. It would also be beneficial to think about the snow guards’ aesthetics, as they will be visible on your roof. Finally, choose a type of snow guard compatible with your roofing material and easily installed by a professional. 

Original article source: TRA Snow & Sun 

By TRA Snow & Sun.  

In regions where heavy snowfall is common, installing snow brackets can truly be lifesaving. 

Snow retention systems, also known as snow brackets or snow guards, are incredibly important roofing features for buildings located in regions that commonly get heavy snow. Snow brackets are designed to allow the snow to freeze to the bracket or fence and allow the snow to melt off in place. The brackets function by penetrating 3” into the snowpack as the snow falls from the sky, causing the snow to freeze to the cold metal bracket. This article from TRA Sun & Snow details the many benefits of using snow brackets on your next project.   

Preventing roof damage 

The primary reason most people would consider using snow brackets is to prevent roof damage caused by sliding snow and ice. Snow brackets help to distribute the weight of the snow evenly across the roof in a large, glaciated blanket. By holding the snow in place, they also prevent ice dams from forming along the roof’s edge. These dams can cause water to back up under the roof, leading to leaks and water damage inside the building. When heavy snow slides on the roof it can take chimneys, other penetrations, roofing material, and gutters right along with it.  

Protecting people and property 

Another critical reason for using snow brackets is to protect people and property below the roof. When large chunks of snow and ice slide off a sloped roof, they can be dangerous to anyone standing or walking below. There’s been several close calls this year from rooftop avalanches and multiple deaths including the very recent deaths of a 50 year old man in Brighton, Utah & a 5 year old girl in Durango, Colorado. Snow brackets help to control the release of snow and ice, preventing it from sliding off the roof.  

Maintaining aesthetic appeal 

Snow brackets also play a role in maintaining the aesthetic appeal of a building’s roof. Without them, snow and ice can slide off the roof, creating unsightly piles around the perimeter of the building. This can be particularly problematic for commercial properties that want to maintain a professional appearance and a clear sidewalk or parking area. Snow brackets allow snow to melt and drain off of the roof in a controlled manner, preventing the accumulation of additional snow and ice around the building’s foundation. 

Increasing energy efficiency 

Snow brackets can also help to increase a building’s energy efficiency. When snow accumulates on a roof, it acts as an insulator, preventing heat from escaping the building. 

Compliance with building codes 

Finally, snow brackets or fences are not often required yet in heavy snow areas. Usually, if there is a requirement it will state “doors and walkways must have snow retention” but it’s important to understand there are many concerns that come with a partial snow retention system. The snow has already accumulated into one blanketed mass on the roof, having one small area of snow retention attempting to hold the roofs snow mass and could lead to failure of the system. The codes and standards relating to snow retention will continue to be worked on with the ASTM task group that TRA is part of.  

In conclusion, snow brackets are essential in areas that experience heavy snowfall. They help to prevent roof damage, protect people and property, maintain aesthetic appeal, increase energy efficiency, and comply with future building codes. Building owners and managers should work with a snow retention professional to determine the appropriate snow retention system and quantity for their building. Then ensure that it is installed correctly. With the proper snow retention system in place, building owners can have peace of mind knowing that their roofs are protected from the damaging effects of heavy snow and ice. 

Have a question? AskARoofer.     

Find your local roofing contractor in the RoofersCoffeeShop® Contractor Directory.    

Original article source: TRA Sun & Snow

By Cayden Wemple. 

With record-breaking snowfall in almost every state this season, snow retention is more important than ever. 

During the recent NERCA convention, RoofersCoffeeShop® had the chance to meet up and talk to Mindy Dahlquist of TRA Snow & Sun to find out a little bit about the company and what TRA does. Mindy explained, “TRA is a rooftop snow retention manufacturer. We manufacture in-house, powder coat our systems, engineer them, and then also warrant our systems so that we can take that liability away from the contractor, the homeowner, and put that liability on us to make sure that everyone's just well taken care of.” 

Snow retention in a roofing system is something that people often forget is very important in keeping homes safe and secure. Luckily, word is beginning to spread about the importance of snow retention. Mindy told RCS, “Snow retention is getting big really everywhere. It's been around in Utah, Colorado, Lake Tahoe, the big snow areas for quite some time. But now even when you go to Ohio, Indiana, any of those states, they're receiving so much ice during the snowstorms in the snow season to where that ice is coming off in panels instead, where the snow retention's able to hold that on there and keep it as a safe environment for the homeowners, residents, anyone that's going in and out. And then also saves that structure as well.”  

In conclusion, it is crucial to consider snow retention systems when living in areas impacted by snowfall, regardless of the region. TRA Snow & Sun provides a solution to this issue by manufacturing and engineering their snow retention systems in-house, ensuring safety and liability for both contractors and homeowners. As awareness of the importance of snow retention systems grows, companies like TRA Snow & Sun will continue to play a significant role in keeping homes and communities safe during the winter season. 

Learn more about TRA Snow & Sun in their RoofersCoffeeShop® Directory or visit trasnowandsun.com 

About Cayden   

Cayden is a reporter for RoofersCoffeeShop, MetalCoffeeShop and AskARoofer. When he isn’t writing about roofs, he’s usually playing guitar or writing songs for his musical endeavors.